Hydraulic Breaker Choice Key Factors for an Ideal Match of Your Excavator

The incorrect hydraulic breaker will have you back in the shop with a costly downtime scenario, reduced efficiency, and possibly ruin your equipment. In this article, we are going to walk you step by step through the critical considerations for matching an excavator to a hydraulic breaker to achieve optimum performance, cost savings, and life from your investment.

What is a Hydraulic Breaker?

A hydraulic breaker is a heavy-duty demolition tool mounted on excavators and other construction machines. Hydraulic pressure from the host machine is used to transfer high-impact blows via a moil point or chisel, thus breaking hard material like rock, concrete, and asphalt. Hydraulic breakers are more efficient and better suited to most modern construction applications than pneumatic breakers, which rely on compressed air.

Why Proper Sizing Matters

Risks of Using the Wrong Breaker

• Undersized Breaker: Struggles to pierce hard materials, prolonging project time and fuel consumption.
• Oversized Breaker: Increases the excavator’s hydraulic capacity, encouraging premature wear, reduced stability, and potential structural damage.

Benefits of Sizing Correctly

• Maximizes breaking efficiency and productivity
• Reduces maintenance cost and machine stress
• Enhances operator comfort with less vibration and noise
• Extends the lifecycle of both breaker and excavator

5 Things to Keep in Mind When Selecting a Hydraulic Breaker

1. Excavator Size and Weight

Your excavator’s operating weight is the top priority. Using the wrong breaker can lead to safety and stability issues.

2. Pressure and Flow Hydraulic

Your excavator’s hydraulic system should match the requirements of the breaker

• DM15: Flow 20-30 L/min, Pressure 70-140 kg/cm², Impact Rate 700-1200 BPM
• DM35: Flow 25-45 L/min, Pressure 90-140 kg/cm², Impact Rate 500-1200 BPM
• F120/HB10G: Flow 70-110 L/min, Pressure 160-180 kg/cm², Impact Rate 400-650 BPM

3. Tool Diameter and Impact Energy

• Chisel Size: Small chisels (e.g., 38mm) for precise breaking, and large ones (e.g., 105mm) for demolition in general.
• Impact Energy: Greater energy (in joules) means greater breaking force—required for hard materials like granite or reinforced concrete.

4. Job Type and Working Conditions

• Urban Demolition: Choose low-noise, low-vibration models (e.g., DMJ series) to meet noise standards and avoid disruption.
• Quarry/Mining: Apply high-impact, heavy-duty breakers like the DM90/HB8G for hard rock and permanent use.
• Tight Spaces: Use compact breakers on space-limited sites.

5. Total Cost of Ownership

Besides initial cost, factor in:

• Maintenance requirements
• Fuel efficiency
• Life and longevity
• Ready availability of spare parts and service

Why Choose METDEEM Hydraulic Breakers?

Broad Compatibility

Compatible with 0.8-15 ton excavators, and specifically designed to be fully compatible with CAT, Komatsu, Volvo, Sany, and XCMG brands.

Quality Assurance

All products are ISO 9001 and CE certified, and technical patents ensure excellent performance and safety.

Low Maintenance Design

Robust construction and high-quality materials reduce downtime and extend service life.

Broad Support

• 12-month guarantee
• 6-month complimentary replacement service
• Global technical support and availability of spares
• 12-hour turnaround time for inquiries

How to Choose the Correct METDEEM Model

Excavator Specification Matching

Begin by specifying your excavator’s operating weight, hydraulic flow rate, and pressure rating. For 0.8-1.5 ton compact machines, utilize the DM15 for maximum capability. Mid-size machines (2-3 tons) can use the DM35 model as a power/economy compromise. Heavy-duty machines (9-15 tons) require the heavy-duty F120/HB10G for maximum break power. Cross-reference those with our large compatibility charts to ensure spot matching.

Choosing Based on Environment

Urban development projects value our models for their minimum noise and vibration levels. Quarry use requires maximum impact energy and toughness, so the DM90/HB8G will suit 8-10 ton excavators. It is powered at a hydraulic flow rate of 45-80 L/min at a pressure range of 120-150 kg/cm² to provide an impact frequency of 420-680 bpm. Proximity to residential areas and consideration of environmental regulations will have to be factored in when selecting individual models.

Getting METDEEM’s Technical Support

Our technical staff provides expert consultation for complex applications with custom-made solutions. You can be assured that any of our products can be supplied in a variety of designs, and the product can be custom-made to suit your own needs. At the same time, we can offer an even higher quality after-sales service. Ask our experts for special custom-made customization, non-standard excavator configurations, or custom working conditions with tailor-made consultation.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Pre-Installation Checklist

• Shut off the hydraulic system of the excavator
• Check hydraulic fluid cleanliness and filter integrity
• Look for hydraulic line leaks or damage
• Check for mounting bracket compatibility

Safe Operation Practices

• Be sure to keep the breaker at a right angle to the working surface
• Do not side-load the chisel to avoid damage or tool expulsion
• Watch the hydraulic temperature with prolonged use
• Take frequent breaks to allow the system to cool

Routine Maintenance

• Daily check hydraulic connections and chisel condition
• Lubricate grease points as appropriate
• Replace old chisels in a timely fashion to prevent reduced efficiency and safety.

FAQ

Q: How do I choose the right size hydraulic breaker?

A: Start with the operating weight of your excavator, then check hydraulic pressure and flow. Example: The DM35 is ideal for 2-3 ton excavators with 25-45 L/min flow.

Q: What warranty does METDEEM offer?

A: We have a 12-month or 2,000-hour warranty against defects. Free replacement during the first 6 months.

Q: Is it possible to make the breaker larger to have more power?

A: No. A big breaker will damage your hydraulic system on your excavator and is unsafe. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: How do I replace the chisel?

A: Based on material hardness and application. Replace when the tip has become worn, rounded, or largely worn off.

Q: Why are METDEEM breakers special?

A: We combine advanced engineering, tough materials, and years of industry experience to offer high performance at a low cost.